Family Adventure in the Enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town

Embracing Hoi An's Countryside Charms

Today was a breath of fresh air, literally and figuratively. After soaking in the bustling energy of Hoi An's ancient town, Hans, Leila, and I ventured into the serene countryside. It was a day filled with the simple joys of rural life, vibrant colors, and the kind of peace that settles deep in your soul.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at the Old Garden Restaurant (Vườn Xưa). Tucked away in a small alley, this gem offered a comforting start to the day with their recommended Quang Nam noodles and Banh Xeo, which Leila particularly enjoyed. It's these little family-run businesses that truly capture the heart of Vietnamese cuisine, a world away from the crowded tourist spots.


Discover the charm of traditional Vietnamese cuisine at Old Garden Restaurant in Hội An's historic Old Town.

Hoi An Ecotour: A Dive into Local Life

Following breakfast, we embarked on our Hoi An Ecotour. I was particularly excited about this, given my passion for cultural heritage preservation and sustainable living. The tour was an immersive experience, showcasing the daily life of the local people. We learned how families work, live, and make ends meet, all while preserving their environmental, social, and cultural values. It was truly inspiring to witness their dedication.


Explore the serene landscapes of Hoi An Ecotour, where nature and culture harmoniously unite for an unforgettable travel experience.

We had the chance to try our hand at traditional farming techniques. The local guide showed us how to cultivate the land and care for the crops, explaining the importance of each step in the process. Leila was fascinated by the water buffalos, and even got a short ride on one, giggling with delight. Hans, ever the photographer, captured every moment, ensuring we'd have these memories to cherish forever.

The beauty of Hoi An lies not just in its ancient architecture, but in the vibrant tapestry of its people and their connection to the land.

For lunch, we stopped at Hong Phuc 2, a restaurant known for its authentic Vietnamese dishes. The restaurant had a charming ambiance, decorated with traditional lanterns. We savored local delicacies, each dish bursting with flavor and spices. It was a true culinary adventure, and Leila even tried some new dishes, much to our surprise.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Hong Phuc 2 in Hội An - a culinary gem offering unforgettable flavors in a charming setting.

Cycling Through Rice Fields at Sunset

In the afternoon, we geared up for our Hoi An Rice Fields-Cycling&Sunset tour. The idea of cycling through the countryside as the sun set was incredibly appealing. We rented bicycles and set off on a leisurely ride through the lush green rice paddies. The air was fresh, and the scenery was breathtaking. Farmers waved from their fields, and the vibrant green of the rice stalks was a feast for the eyes.


Explore the enchanting rice fields of Hoi An through cycling, capturing breathtaking sunsets and immersing yourself in rural Vietnamese culture.

Leila, with her boundless energy, pedaled ahead, her laughter echoing through the fields. Hans and I followed at a more relaxed pace, taking in the beauty of the landscape. We stopped to watch the sunset over the rice fields, the sky ablaze with colors of orange, pink, and gold. It was a magical moment, one that we'll treasure forever. I was reminded of my childhood in Bamyan, where we would often gather in the fields to watch the sunset, sharing stories and dreams.

KoFi Hoi An: Cocktails and Cozy Vibes

As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to some cocktails at KoFi Hoi An - Cocktail bar. This hidden gem, tucked away in a tiny alley, offered a cozy and laid-back atmosphere. The fairy tale-like decor and friendly service made it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. Hans and I enjoyed expertly crafted cocktails while Leila sipped on a refreshing juice. The bar had a unique view of the city's rooftops, adding to its charm. I opted for a Negroni, while Hans tried the Whiskey Sour, both were delicious and reasonably priced.


Experience the essence of Hoi An at KoFi Hoi An, where exquisite cocktails meet charming Vietnamese culture in a cozy atmosphere.

Before heading back to the Hoi An Merrily De Art Hotel, we had dinner at Red Dragon Restaurant and Cooking Class. Though the reviews were mixed, we were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food. The seafood was fresh, and the flavors were authentic. Leila even enjoyed a cooking class demonstration, learning how to make traditional Vietnamese spring rolls. It was a fun and educational experience for her.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine and hands-on cooking classes at Red Dragon Restaurant in Hội An.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Hoi An's countryside is a world away from the bustling city, a place where time slows down and the simple joys of life take center stage. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Quan Thang Ancient House and experience the Bài Chòi Hội An. I'm eager to delve deeper into Hoi An's cultural heritage and discover more hidden gems. I am also hoping to find some time for shopping and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs to take back home to Potsdam.

This trip has been an incredible journey so far, and I'm excited to see what the next few days have in store. I am so happy to be sharing this experience with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. It reminds me of the importance of cultural exchange and understanding, something I strive to promote in my work as a cultural event coordinator. Perhaps I can even incorporate some of these experiences into future events at the community center. It’s a beautiful thing to witness and share the traditions of different cultures, and Hoi An has certainly given us a lot to appreciate.

The day reminded me that the most enriching travel experiences often come from stepping outside the well-trodden tourist paths and embracing the local culture. I'm excited for what tomorrow brings, and I know that Hoi An will continue to surprise and delight us with its unique charm.

Final Thoughts

Today was more than just a tour; it was an immersion into the heart of Hoi An. From the flavors of local cuisine to the serenity of the rice fields and the warmth of its people, every moment was a reminder of the beauty of cultural exchange and the importance of preserving our heritage. As we prepare for our adventures tomorrow, I carry with me the peace and inspiration of today, ready to share these experiences with the world.

And as the sun sets on another beautiful day in Vietnam, I am reminded of a quote I once read: Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living. And I couldn't agree more. Good night from Hoi An!